The Acting Executive Director of the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board (GMMB), Essel Kwesi Blankson, has called for urgent support to upgrade and properly resource the Upper East Regional Museum, describing it as a vital institution for preserving and telling the history of Northern Ghana.
According to him, the museum remains the only one serving the entire northern part of the country, making it critical for preserving the region’s cultural heritage and historical narratives.
He said strengthening the facility would help showcase the rich history and traditions of the people of the Upper East Region and beyond.
“Since the Upper East Regional Museum is the only museum in the whole of Northern Ghana, it is very important that we resource it to tell the story of this rich place,” Mr. Blankson said.
He also expressed concern about reported encroachment on land belonging to the museum and appealed to authorities to take immediate steps to resolve the issue, warning that the situation could threaten future development plans for the facility.
“There is land attached to the museum, and from what I understand there have been some encroachments, with landowners reclaiming portions of it, which is very dangerous. I want to appeal to you to help settle that land issue as soon as possible so that we can see how best to use it,” he said.
Mr. Blankson further indicated that the current state of the museum no longer reflects its importance and stressed the need for a modern facility that fits into the socio-cultural landscape of the region.
“I think what is there has outlived its purpose. It is important that we come up with a new plan that fits into the socio-cultural landscape of the community so that we can truly tell the story of the region,” he added.
He also called on traditional authorities to support the museum by providing artefacts and relics that reflect the history and traditions of their communities. According to him, such contributions would help museum professionals document and present authentic narratives for educational and tourism purposes.
During his visit to the region, Mr. Blankson toured several historical and cultural sites, including the Tengzug Shrine and the Navrongo Cathedral.
Welcoming him to the region, the Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga, assured the GMMB of the regional administration’s commitment to supporting the rehabilitation and expansion of the museum.
“We are trying as much as possible to push for the rehabilitation and expansion of the museum, particularly in relation to the relics and historical materials,” he said.
The Upper East Regional Director of Museums, Prisca Naambome Yenzie, also emphasized the need to upgrade the museum and develop other potential heritage sites across the region to boost tourism and promote socio-economic development.
A1 Radio | 101.1 Mhz | Moses Apiah | Bolgatanga
